As you would imagine, while the SUV category shrinks, the crossover one grows. We've seen car-based wagons grow in size and truck-based vehicles change to more fuel-efficient platforms, all of which blurs the line between crossover and sport/utility. For us, though, crossovers are car-based, mostly front drive, and simply can't do the work a midsize SUV can. They typically lack the capability of a ladder-frame sport/utility (payload, cargo space, towing, seating capacity).

In this group, we feel the best crossover is the one that comes closest to SUV-like ability. The Highlander offers a choice of three engines, can tow up to 5000 pounds, and seats seven. It's roomy and reliable, and may not be the most exciting of the bunch, but will provide up to 27 mpg while catering to your people- and gear-hauling needs. Another excellent option is the Traverse, which has more style and can tow 200 pounds more than the Highlander.